Blazing Star: Marsh (Liatris spicata)

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$0.25

0.257$0.25 - $5.60

$0.25

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​This striking native wildflower is often cultivated for its amazing ability to attract butterflies and bees. Though the meaning of the Latin genus name Liatris is a mystery, the species name spicata means “spike.” This species is one of the many studied by the German botanist Carl Ludwig Willdenow, who laid the foundations for the scientific study of plant distribution.

Direct sow seeds in late fall, pressing them into the surface of the soil. For spring planting, mix the seeds with moist sand and store in the refrigerator for 60 days before planting; keep the soil lightly moist until germination, which usually occurs within 3-4 weeks at temperatures of 65-70 degrees F. This seed can also be started indoors 6-8 weeks before planting in the spring.

Young plants will need to be watered as they develop; because of the development of their extensive root systems, blooming usually does not occur until the second year of growth. Mature plants tolerate drought well, though they also flourish in moist soil. After three or four years, the plants may need to be divided for the best growth. This should be done after blooming, when the plant has gone dormant. These plants attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

These blooms make excellent cut flowers. Choose stalks with about one third of the flowers open, and place them in water immediately; strip the foliage that will fall below the surface of the water. For dried flowers, hang the spikes upside down in a dry, warm place for about three weeks.

When the flowers fade, they will eventually develop into a fluffy seed head. Since small birds love to eat the seed, harvest promptly to avoid loss. Cut the stems as soon as the fluff darkens slightly and can be removed. Spread the stalks out to dry away from direct sunlight. When they have completely dried, strip the fluff from the stems and clean it as well as possible. Store the seed in a cool, dry place.

suggested varieties

Coneflower: Purple (Echinacea purpurea)

$0.25 - $5.60

All the members of the Echinacea genus are native to North America, though they are becoming more rare in the wild. The genus name Echinacea comes from the Greek word for “hedgehog,” referring to the spiny seed head of the flower. Historically, this family of plants has been extensively used by Native American tribes and early settlers because of its beneficial medicinal properties. Echinacea acts as a natural antibiotic, and improves the function of the immune system; it became very popular in the medical field in the early twentieth century, particularly after the extensive researches of the German Dr. Gerhard Madaus. Echinacea is still widely used as an herbal remedy, as well as being a common and well-loved addition to perennial gardens and prairie plantings.